[ dimitri is a patient teacher. he keeps count for lalli and tells him when to move and when to turn. lalli doesn't look eager to him, but he follows along dutifully, which is rather nice for a partner. ]

I'm going to gently tilt your body down parallel to the floor - it's part of the steps of the dance, and you'll have to trust your weight in my hand as I lower you down. Would you like to try? [ dimitri smiles at him reassuringly. ] I promise I won't let you fall on the floor.

[ best he ask him instead of surprising him at all. ]